Process for the preparation of anhydrous and hydrated active pharmaceutical ingredients (apis); stable pharmaceutical compositions prepared from the same and uses of said compositions

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-a-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I)(docetaxel) and 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R, 3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) (paclitaxel), methods for treating neoplastic tumors using anhydrous docetaxel and paclitaxel, and a process for the preparation of the anhydrous docetaxel and paclitaxel.

This application is a Divisional of co-pending application Ser. No. 10/582,385 filed on Aug. 15, 2007, and for which priority is claimed under 35 U.S.C. § 120; and this application claims priority to International Application No. PCT/BR2004/000242 filed on Dec. 10, 2004, which claims priority to Application No. PROV-020040015028 filed in Brazil on Dec. 8, 2004 and which claims priority to Application No. PI0305824-7 filed in Brazil on Dec. 12, 2003 under 35 U.S.C. § 119; the entire contents of all are hereby incorporated by reference.

SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of API's, more specifically, taxane derivatives, especially (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-a-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) and 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II).

One innovative aspect of the present invention refers to a process particularly useful for obtaining anhydrous compounds which form stable hydrates and are thermolabile, which prevents the removal of water by conventional processes such as drying under vacuum at elevated temperatures.

Another innovative aspect of the present invention refers to a process for the preparation of hydrated API's, more specifically taxane derivatives, especially the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-a-benzOylOxy-5ss-20-epoxy-1,7-ss-10-ss-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13a-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III).

Yet another innovative aspect of the present invention is with respect to a process for the preparation of injectable solutions, which are sterile and stable, from the API's according to the processes herein described, which are useful in the treatment of disease or infirmity, including, but not limited to, neoplastic tumors and other conditions which respond to treatment with agents that inhibit the depolymerization of tubulin, for example, cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs and others.

The solutions are obtained by way of dissolution of the active principle I, II or III indicated above, in an appropriate biocompatible vehicle, followed by filtration through a membrane having a porosity less than or equal to 0.45 μm; or, dissolution of the active principle I, II or III in an appropriate biocompatible vehicle, previously acidified with an organic or inorganic acid, followed by filtration through a membrane having a porosity less than or equal to 0.45 μm; or, dissolution of the active principle I, II or III in an appropriate biocompatible vehicle, posteriorly acidified, with an organic or inorganic acid followed by filtration through a membrane having a porosity less than or equal to 0.45 μm.

Lastly, the invention is also with respect to the stable pharmaceutical compositions thus obtained and the use of these compositions in the treatment of disease or infirmity, including, but not limited to, neoplastic tumors and other conditions which respond to treatment with agents that inhibit the depolymerization of tubulin, for example, cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs and others.

PRIOR ART

The active principle (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), a taxane derivative obtained by chemical semi-synthesis, which presents anti-cancer and anti-leukemic properties.

There are various synthetic methods which lead to compound (I) as well as its tri-hydrate (III), for example, those cited in patent PCT-WO 92/09589 issued to Rhone-Poulenc Rorer S. A, U.S. Pat. No. 5,808,113 issued to Hauser Inc., and patent PCT-WO 96/01815, also issued to Rhone-Poulenc Rorer S. A.

The above mentioned compounds have demonstrated pharmacological activity against acute leukemia and solid tumors.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,504,102 issued to Bristol-Myers Squibb describes a process for the preparation of polyethoxylated castor oil with low alkalinity and the use of this medium for the preparation of solutions containing antineoplastic agents.

Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,582 issued to Rhone-Poulenc Rorer S. A. describes a process for the preparation of compositions containing taxane derivatives in a surfactant and the utility of these compositions for preparing perfusions.

Nonetheless, neither of these patents describe, nor do they suggest specifically, the use of anhydrous active principles in conjunction with polyethoxylated sorbitols which have been previously or posteriorly acidified for the preparation of sterile, injectable solutions, which confers additional stability to the compositions.

Brazilian patent application PI 9508789-3A, whose priority is French patent FR 94 08479 issued to Rhone-Poulenc Rorer S. A., describes a process for the preparation of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III), employing recrystallization from “a mixture of water and an aliphatic alcohol containing between 1 and 3 carbons, followed by drying the product obtained under pre-determined conditions of temperature, pressure and humidity.”

This process presents various disadvantages. We call attention to the fact that this process suggests the prior purification of the (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate by chromatography.

Another disadvantage of this process resides in the fact that it is recommended that the solvents used in the cromatographic purification be removed by co-distillation with alcohol under reduced pressure which results in a “thick syrup whose agitation is difficult”.

Yet another disadvantage of this invention lies in the fact that the process recommends refrigeration of the solution to 0° C. in order to obtain the best results.

Lastly, the cited process requires drying under vacuum at elevated temperatures in an atmosphere with controlled humidity, which requires costly and sophisticated equipment.

The patent in question also maintains that the tri-hydrate (III) obtained “presents clearly superior stability relative to the anhydrous product”.

However, comparative studies realized in our laboratories have demonstrated that, when stored under adequate and controlled conditions, the anhydrous product (I) obtained by the processes claimed herein demonstrates a stability equal or superior to the tri-hydrate and, that under these conditions of storage, the product does not re-hydrate to a significant degree.

It has been observed that utilization of the anhydrous product (I), cited above, confers an equal or superior stability to the pharmaceutical finished dosage form, which can be illustrated by stability studies of solutions of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) in polyethoxylated sorbitol which has been previously or posteriorly acidified.

Brazilian patent application PI 9508789-3 cites as an example the addition of ascorbic acid in the preparation of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, via recrystallization, which involves a laborious and multi-step process, to confer additional stability to the API.

Therefore, patent application PI 9508789-3, cited here as a reference, neither describes nor anticipates in a manner obvious to a person skilled in the art, the process for the preparation of the anhydrous product (I), as claimed in the present invention, which may be obtained directly and with fewer experimental steps.

Furthermore, patent application PI9508789-3 does not anticipate nor suggest in a manner obvious to a person skilled in the art, the additional stability conferred to pharmaceutical formulations by addition of an organic or inorganic acid as claimed in the present invention.

On the other hand, U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,582 describes a process for the preparation of solutions containing taxane derivatives in surfactants and the utilization of the same to prepare perfusions. This process requires that the active principle be first dissolved in ethanol, followed by addition of a surfactant and subsequent removal of the ethanol under vacuum.

This process involves several steps and manipulations which makes it complex, laborious and lengthy.

The process claimed in the present invention overcomes these disadvantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1—refers to a schematic representation of the filtration process, as constituted in “Scheme 1”;

FIG. 2—refers to a schematic representation of the dissolution and filtration process as constituted in “Scheme 2”.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a first embodiment, the present invention is advantageous with respect to the state of the art in that it is not necessary to recrystallize the active principle (III), with the concommitant reduction in the overall yield of the process. The anhydrous active principle (I) may be obtained directly, in a single production step, resulting in considerable economy and a reduction in the number of steps.

In a second embodiment, the present invention also permits that, by use of the process described, (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), of high purity, may be obtained in the form of an amorphous powder, which greatly facilitates its solubilization in biocompatible excipients. This results in the formation of solutions appropriate to be used directly in the confection of injectable pharmaceutical finished dosage forms without the addition of ethanol or other complementary excipients.

In a third embodiment, while the state of the art mentions that the addition of ascorbic acid during the recrystallization of the active principle (III) confers additional stability to it, an innovation particular to the present invention lies in the fact that it is advantageous to add a weak acid during the preparation of pharmaceutical solutions of (I) and (III). This is neither mentioned nor suggested by the state of the art.

As such, additional stability may be conferred to the finished dosage forms by addition of a weak acid to the solution. Acids which may be employed include, but are not limited to: ascorbic, phosphoric, acetic, citric or tartaric acid.

A fourth embodiment of the present invention lies in the fact that it is not necessary to first solubilize the active principle in ethanol followed by the subsequent removal of the ethanol as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,582.

As proposed herein, the compounds (I) and (II) may be solubilized directly in the vehicle utilized in the formulation without the necessity of adding a co-solvent.

In a fifth embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to obtain stable, sterile pharmaceutical presentations, absent of pyrogens, of small, medium and large volume, which are appropriate for administration after dilution, or for filling in ampoules, vials or other suitable recipients which may be transported under adequate conditions for direct use in clinics and hospitals specialized in the treatment of cancer which possess installations for the dilution of cytostatic drugs.

The installations for the dilution of cytostatic drugs serve as a means to ensure the individualization of the treatment for the cancer patient and offer an economy in the administration of the prescribed medication.

In this context, it is indispensable that sterile, stable and a pyrogenic injectable formulations be available, ready for administration in large volumes, ideally between 50 and 5,000 mL.

The solutions thus obtained may also be transported under adequate conditions and be filled into smaller recipients at another location.

In a sixth embodiment, the present invention also describes a process for the preparation of concentrated solutions of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (II) in polyethoxylated sorbitols.

The state of the art utilizes as a vehicle for the formulation of (II) a mixture of polyethoxylated castor oil, for example, Cremophor® EL or ELP and ethanol. It is well known that Cremophore® is responsible for various adverse reactions which requires premedication with anti-histamines, corticosteroids and/or H₂ antagonists.

Known commercial formulations also utilize considerable amounts of ethanol, which is responsible on many occasions for ethanol intoxication of the patient due to the large volume of product administered to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

As such, the exclusion of polyethoxylated castor oil and ethanol from the compositions of the present invention presents considerable advantages from the patient point of view, and greatly reduce or eliminate the side-effects associated with these vehicles.

The process for the preparation of anhydrous API's according to the present invention, more specifically taxane derivatives, and especially (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oXo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) and 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) may be realized according to various procedures as will become evident.

In a seventh embodiment of the present invention, an hydrated sample of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoylOxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) is solubilized in a chemically inert solvent which forms an azeotrope with water. This solvent may be a linear or branched alcohol, an organic acid, a halogenated solvent, an aromatic solvent or another solvent of sufficient polarity capable of solubilizing the hydrated product. Preferably the solvent employed in the present invention is a short chain linear or branched alcohol.

The solution thus obtained is subjected to azeotropic distillation at a temperature between 20 and 200° C., and at a pressure between 1 and 800 mm Hg to remove the water of hydration. In the case of hydrated (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, the temperature is, preferably, below 40° C.

In an eighth embodiment of the present invention, the hydrated (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate may also be solubilized in a combination of two or more of the aforementioned solvents.

For example, these solvents may be a combination of a linear or branched alcohol, an organic acid, a halogenated solvent, an aromatic solvent or another solvent of sufficient polarity capable of solubilizing the hydrated product and capable of forming a binary, ternary or quaternary azeotrope with water.

In the case of hydrated (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, the proportion between the first and second solvent is on the order of between 1:2 to 1:90.

Afterwards, the azeotropic distillation may be carried out at a pressure between <0.001 and 780 mm Hg. In the case of hydrated (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, the pressure is preferentially between 0.1-100 mm Hg.

In a ninth embodiment of the present invention, impure (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) may be subjected to normal or reverse phase chromatography, employing a solvent or mixture of solvents among those routinely employed in the technique.

In the case of impure (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-↑-tri-hydroxy-9-oXo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), the stationary phase may be silica gel, alumina or cellulose, or chemically modified versions thereof, including but not limited to RP-C18, RP-C8, RP-pentafluorophenyl or RP-phenyl. The stationary phase employed is preferentially silica gel or RP-pentafluorophenyl.

In the case of normal phase chromatography, the solvents employed are esters, alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, ethers, halogenated solvents, nitrites or mixtures thereof. It is understood that the technique of gradient elution may also be employed. In the present case concerning taxane derivatives, the solvents employed are preferentially mixtures of alkanes and esters.

In the case of reverse phase chromatography, the solvents employed are esters, alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, ethers, halogenated solvents, nitrites, water, aqueous buffer solutions or mixtures thereof. It is understood that the technique of gradient elution may also be employed. In the present case concerning taxane derivatives, the solvents employed are preferentially mixtures of nitrites or a short chain linear alcohol and water in an acidic buffer.

After removal of the solvents, the anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate obtained may be used directly or submitted to one of the aforementioned processes for further purification and/or removal of water of hydration.

In a tenth embodiment of the present invention, a process for the formation of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate is described employing an anhydrous solvent, under controlled conditions, utilizing one or more of the processes cited in the state of the art, with reagents and raw materials of sufficient purity so as to lead directly to the formation of pure, anhydrous (I), after removal of the solvents.

In the case of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), it is particularly advantageous to conduct the reaction in anhydrous tetrahydrofuran or anhydrous dioxane employing equimolar amounts of N-debenzoyl-10-desacetoxy paclitaxel >98% purity and di-tertbutyl-dicarbonate of >99% purity. Removal of the solvent and drying under vacuum affords directly anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in 98% yield.

In an eleventh embodiment of the present invention, we describe a process for the preparation of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III), which may be realized via a simple and efficient technique.

To begin, (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) is solubilized in a solvent which is chemically inert. This solvent may be a linear or branched alcohol containing between 1 and 8 carbons, an organic acid, an aliphatic or cyclic ether, a polar, aprotic solvent, a halogentated solvent, an aromatic solvent, a polyethoxylated sorbitol, lecithin or castor oil; or another solvent of adequate polarity to effect the complete solubilization of (I) and is capable of solubilizing, or is miscible with, at least 3 molar equivalents of water.

The solution so obtained is admixed with an amount of distilled water between 3 and 200,000 molar equivalents relative to (I). Crystallization is induced and the tri-hydrate (III) is isolated by means of conventional processes such as filtration, decantation or centrifugation.

As such, the steps necessary to realize the process according to the present invention are as follow:

a) (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) is solubilized in polyethoxylated sorbitol at a temperature between 1 and 60° C. with agitation. The quantity of polyethoxylated sorbitol employed is on the order of between 15 to 40 mL per gram of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. The polyethoxylated sorbitol employed is, preferably, but not exclusively, polysorbate 80.

b) The solution thus obtained is added to a quantity of distilled water and a co-solvent at ambient temperature to form a homogeneous mixture. The co-solvent employed is a linear alcohol containing between 1 and 8 carbons. The proportion of distilled water:alcohol is in the range of between 30 mL:1 mL to 300 mL:50 mL relative to each gram of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate present in the solution obtained in step a).

c) The mixture obtained is left to stand at room temperature during 48-240 h to permit the formation of crystals of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III).

d) The crystals thus obtained are isolated by known techniques and washed with distilled water to remove vestiges of the solvents employed. Among the known techniques which can be used are filtration, decantation and centrifugation.

e) The crystals are then dried at ambient temperature in a dessicator over a dessicant, such as P₂O₅, concentrated H₂SO₄, NaOH, Na₂SO₄, MgSO₄ or CaCl₂, until reaching constant weight.

In relation to the state of the art, the present invention possesses diverse advantages which will be evident to persons skilled in the art, among which we may cite as most relevant, but not limited to:

a) the present invention avoids previous purification of the (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate by chromatography, the same being commercially available;

b) the process does not involve evaporation of solvents and avoids working at pressures below atmospheric;

c) the process does not result in the formation of a “thick syrup, whose stirring is difficult”, which greatly facilitates the manipulation and handling of the solutions and simplifies the types of equipment required;

d) All of the steps of the process can be conducted at ambient temperatures, contrary to the state of the art which requires heating and refrigeration;

e) the process does not require vacuum drying neither control of humidity nor temperature during the drying operation.

In a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, there is also described the preparation of sterile, stable solutions of anhydrous or tri-hydrated, (2R,3S)-4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (I) or (III), and also, 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II), in a biocompatible vehicle.

Appropriate vehicles include, but are not limited to, polyethoxylated sorbitols, and, preferentially polysorbate 80. The solutions are prepared by the slow addition of anhydrous or tri-hydrated (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (I) or (III), or, 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) to the vehicle with agitation, preferably, in an inert atmosphere, at a concentration between 1 and 100 mg of active ingredient on an anhydrous basis per mL polysorbate 80.

As an illustrative point, schematic figures of the present invention are presented in which:

FIG. 1—refers to a schematic representation of the filtration process, as constituted in “Scheme 1”;

FIG. 2—refers to a schematic representation of the dissolution and filtration process as constituted in “Scheme2”.

With respect to the elements depicted in FIG. 1, number (1) represents a sterilizing membrane employed in the filtration with a porosity of 0.22 μm. The pressurized vessel is represented by number (2) and the recipient for the sterilized filtrate is represented by number (3). N₂ represents the pressure inlet for an inert gas such as nitrogen. The combination of these elements constitues “Scheme 1”.

With respect to FIG. 2, the following elements are depicted: reactor (4), temperature control (5), control for agitation (6), sterilizing filtration membrane (7), and the recipient for the sterilized filtrate (8). N₂ represents the pressure inlet for an inert gas such as nitrogen. The combination of these elements constitutes “Scheme2”.

According to scheme 1, FIG. 1, after complete solubilization of the active principle, the solution is transferred to a pressure vessel (2), filtered through the sterilizing membrane with a porosity of less than 0.45 μm, preferably 0.22 μm and filled into pyrogen free, sterile recipient(s) (3) in a sterile environment. The products thus obtained are stable for at least 18 months when stored between 2-8° C.

The preparation of sterile, stable solutions of anhydrous or tri-hydrated (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13β-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (I) or (III), and also, 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13a-il (2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II), in a biocompatible vehicle, may also be conducted in an alternative manner.

Appropriate vehicles include, but are not limited to, polyethoxylated sorbitols, and, preferably, polysorbate 80.

The solution is prepared directly in a stainless steel reactor (4), as shown in FIG. 2, by way of slow addition of the active principle (I), (II) or (III) to the vehicle with internal agitation, preferably under an inert atmosphere, at a concentration between 1 and 100 mg of active principle (on an anhydrous basis)/mL polysorbate 80.

According to scheme 2, after complete solubilization of the active principle, the solution is filtered directly through the sterilizing membrane (7) with a porosity of less than 0.45 μm, preferably 0.22 μm and collected in a sterile recipient (8) in a sterile environment. The solution thus obtained may be filled into pyrogen free, sterile vials, ampoules or other suitable recipient. The products thus obtained are stable for at least 18 months when stored between 2-8° C.

In a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned vehicles may be previously or posteriorly acidified. It is advantageous to acidify the polysorbate 80 prior to the addition of the active principle with an organic, inorganic or mixture of acids, chemically compatible with the vehicle and active principle (I, II or III), including, but not limited to, phosphoric, acetic, citric, tartaric or ascorbic acids.

It is also advantageous to acidify the solution of the active principle in polysorbate 80 after the complete dissolution of the active principle (I), (II) or (III) with an organic, inorganic or mixture of acids, chemically compatible with the vehicle and active principle (I, II or III), including, but not limited to, phosphoric, acetic, citric, tartaric or ascorbic acids.

The solutions thus obtained are more stable than solutions which are not acidified. For the purpose of the present invention, the preferable acids to be employed are acetic or ascorbic. The pH may be adjusted between 3.0-6.5, preferably, between 3.5 and 4.5. Solutions prepared in this manner are stable for at least 24 months when stored between 2 and 8° C. (Tables 1 and 2).

TABLE 1 Comparative stability study of solutions of the tri-hydrate and anhydrous forms of (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri- hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3- phenylpropionate in polysorbate 80 with and without the addition of acid A % A % Docetaxel A % Docetaxel Docetaxel A % (anhydrous) (anhydrous) Time (tri- Docetaxel with acetic With ascorbic (months) hydrate) (anhydrous) acid acid 0 100.10 99.87 100.04 99.98 3 100.07 99.72 99.89 99.72 6 99.23 99.02 99.03 99.34 12 97.41 97.21 98.98 98.79 18 96.23 96.09 98.13 98.02 24 94.14 90.09 97.67 97.48 Note 1: All solutions were prepared at a concentration of 40 mg/mL, on an anhydrous basis, followed by filtration through a sterilizing mambrane. Note 2: The acidified solutions were prepared from polysorbate 80 whose pH had been previously adjusted to between 3.5 and 4.5 by addition of the respective acids. Note 3: Samples were stored between 2 and 8 C. Note 4: Assay of docetaxel was performed by HPLC.

TABLE 2 Comparative stability study of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1, 7β-10-β-tri-hidroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino- 2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in Cremophor EL and polysorbate 80 with and without addition of ascorbic acid A % Paclitaxel A % Paclitaxel Anhydrous Anhydrous Time A % Paclitaxel (polysorbate (polysorbate 80 (months) (Cremophor EL) 80) with ascorbic acid) 0 100.08 100.55 100.30 3 99.46 100.10 100.20 6 99.04 99.81 99.99 12 96.46 97.02 97.90 18 92.10 93.05 97.01 24 85.16 89.84 94.97 Note 1: All solutions were prepared at a concentration of 6 mg/mL on an anhydrous basis, followed by filtration through a sterilizing membrane. Note 2: The acidified solutions were prepared from polysorbate 80 whose pH had been previously adjusted to between 3.5 and 4.5 by addition of the respective acids. Note 3: Samples were stored between 2 and 8° C. Note 4: Assay of paclitaxel was performed by HPLC In a fourteenth and final embodiment of the present invention, the solutions obtained by the processes heretofore described are useful in the treatment of disease or infirmity, including, but not limited to, neoplastic tumors and other conditions which respond to treatment with agents that inhibit the depolymerization of tubulin, for example, cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs and others.

EXAMPLE 1 Process for the Removal of Water of Hydration by Way of Azeotropic Distillation Under Vacuum

A 1.00 g [1.16 mMol] sample of hydrated (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (6.27% water) was solubilized in 50 mL of reagent grade ethanol. The solution which was obtained was distilled under vacuum to remove the ethanol. The amorphous powder obtained was dried between 30 and 60° C. to constant weight, yielding 0.93 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate containing 0.10% water by KF titration.

EXAMPLE 2 Process for the Removal of Water of Hydration by Way of Binary Azeotropic Distillation Under Vacuum

A 1.00 g [1.16 mMol] sample of hydrated (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (6.27% water) was solubilized in 20 mL of ethanol. This was followed by the addition of 180 mL of toluene. The solution thus obtained was distilled under vacuum (20 mmHg/40° C.) to remove, firstly the ethanol. The azeotrope formed between toluene and water was then distilled at 1 mmHg/28° C. Finally, the remainder of the toluene was removed and the amorphous powder obtained was dried at a temperature around 50° C. until constant weight, yielding 0.92 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate ester containing 0.12% water by KF titration.

EXAMPLE 3 Process for the preparation of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate by way of purification of impure (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate using column chromatography

A 1.00 g sample of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, with a chromatographic purity of 97.7% (1.1% H₂O), prepared according to the method of Murray et. al., was solubilized in 2 mL of dichloromethane. The solution obtained was applied to a column of silica gel 60 previously activated at 150° C. and eluted with a gradient of hexane:EtOAc varying from 80:20 to 20:80. The fractions containing pure (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13β-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate were collected and pooled and the solvent removed on a rotary film evaporator at a temperature between 35 and 75° C. at a pressure between 10 and 40 mm Hg. After drying, there were obtained 0.85 g of with a chromatographic purity of 99.34% and a water content of 1.2%.

EXAMPLE 4 Process for the preparation of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate using an anhydrous solvent as the reaction medium

(This synthesis was realized utilizing a variation of the methodology described by Murray et. al.).

Under an atmosphere of nitrogen, a round bottom flask was charged with 500 mL THF, previously distilled over sodium. 10 g [14. 14 mMol] of 10-desacetyl-N-debenzoyl-paclitaxel (>99% chromatographic purity, <0.1% water by KF) was added in one portion. This was followed by the addition of 3.08 g [14.14 mMol] of di-tert-butyl-dicarbonate (Aldrich >99%). The reaction was monitored by TLC and, after complete consumption of the starting materials, the solvent was removed under vacuum. After drying the product under vacuum, 11.42 g (100%) of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate was isolated with a chromatographic purity of 99.28% (HPLC) and a water content of 0.08% (KF).

EXAMPLE 5 Preparation of the tri-hydrate (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate employing polysorbate 80, ethanol and water as solvents

A 4.00 g sample of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (0.78% water, 98.8% chromatographic purity) was solubilized in 100 mL of polysorbate 80 with mechanical agitation. The solution thus obtained was added to a mixture containing 180 mL distilled water and 20 mL of absolute ethanol. The clear solution obtained was left at rest at ambient temperature. After two days, crystals (needles) began to form. After five days, the crystals that had formed were filtered, washed with distilled water, and dried between 20 and 30° C. in a dessicator over P₂O₅ until constant weight was obtained, yielding 3.97 g of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III) (6.29% water by KF titration; the IR spectrum was identical to that of an authentic sample).

EXAMPLE 6 Preparation of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate employing polysorbate 80, n-butanol and water as solvents

A 4.00 g sample of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (0.78% water, 98.8% chromatographic purity) was solubilized in 100 mL of Polysorbate 80 with mechanical agitation. The solution thus obtained was added to a mixture containing 160 mL distilled water and 30 mL of n-propanol.

The clear solution obtained was left at rest at ambient temperature. After two days, crystals (needles) began to form. After five days, the crystals that had formed were filtered, washed with distilled water, and dried between 20 and 30° C. in a dessicator over P₂O₅ until constant weight was obtained, yielding 3.67 g of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III) (6.24% water by KF titration; the IR spectrum was identical to that of an authentic sample).

EXAMPLE 7 Preparation of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate using the washings of production equipment used in the manufacture of sterile injectable solutions of (I) in polysorbate 80

To the sterilizing filtration system, consisting of a stainless steel, pressurized reactor, silicone rubber hoses and sterilizing filtration capsule with a porosity of 0.22 μm, and containing approximately 1.50 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in 36 mL of polysorbate 80, was added one liter of isopropanol. The resulting solution was collected and the alcohol removed under reduced pressure (20 mm Hg) at 40° C. The resulting solution was added to a mixture of 90 mL distilled water and 10 mL of ethanol with agitation. The clear solution which was obtained was left at rest at ambient temperature. After 2 days, crystals (needles) began to form. After 5 days, the crystals which had formed were filtered, washed with distilled water, and dried between 20 and 30° C. in a dessicator over P₂O₅ until constant weight, yielding 1.21 g of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (6.21% water by KF titration; the IR spectrum was identical to that of an authentic sample).

EXAMPLE 8 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate ester in polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 9 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in polysorbate 80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane coupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 10 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in previously acidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had been previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 3.9. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 11 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylam. in previously acidified polysorbate 80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had been previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 3.9. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane coupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 12 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in posteriorly acidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was then acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 4.0. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 13 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in previously acidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had been previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 4.0. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.27 g of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 14 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in previously acidified polysorbate 80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had been previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 3.9. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.27 g of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S) 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane coupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 15 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in posteriorly acidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 4.27 g of the tri-hydrate of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was then acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 4.0. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 16

Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of 4-acetoxy-2-a-benzoyloxy-5-ss-20-epoxy-1,7ss-10-ss-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13a-il (2R, 3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation). In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 0.6 g anhydrous 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-(3-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II). Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 17 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in polysorbate 80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system, under an atmosphere of N2 was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 0.6 g of anhydrous 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane coupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 18 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in previously acidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had been previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH between 3.5 and 4.5. This was followed by the slow addition of 0.60 g of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate.

Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 19 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in previously acidified polysorbate 80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had been previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH between 3.5 and 4.5.

This was followed by the slow addition of 0.60 g of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane coupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 20 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in posteriorly acidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 0.60 g of 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. The resulting solution was acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH between 3.5 and 4.5 and then transferred to a pressurized vessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 21 Comparative stability study between the tri-hydrate and anhydrous forms of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate

A % A % A % A % Time Docetaxel Impurities Assay Docetaxel Impurities Assay (months) (tri-hydrate)¹ (unknown) (H₂O)² (anhydrous)³ (unknown) H₂O 0 99.51 0.49 6.32 99.28 0.72 0.10 3 99.23 0.77 6.35 99.21 0.79 0.11 6 99.30 0.70 6.21 99.26 0.73 0.12 12 98.91 1.09 6.42 98.93 1.07 0.09 18 98.72 1.28 6.31 98.65 1.35 0.12 24 98.21 1.79 6.29 98.29 1.71 0.13 Experimental data obtained in the laboratories of Quiral Quimica do Brasil S/A ¹Prepared in the laboratories of Quiral Quimica do Brasil S/A. ²Water determined by Karl Fischer titration. ³Prepared according to EXAMPLE 2

Analysis was realized by HPLC using a Waters Spherisorb® C-18, 250×5 mm column, mobile phase MeOH:H₂O 85:15, flow 1.5 mL/min. Related impurities reported as A % discounting the peak due to the dead volume. Samples were stored in amber glass vials under N₂ in a dessicator over P₂O₅ maintained between −5 and 0° C.

The examples given in the present patent application are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Variations of the heretofore described processes which produce similar results will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. 

1.-41. (canceled)
 42. A sterile pharmaceutical composition comprising in proportion of 40:1000 w/v, (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-yl 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (anhydrous docetaxel (I)) with a water content lower than 1.0% w/w calculated on an anhydrous basis, and polysorbate 80; and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein said acid is present in a sufficient quantity to obtain a pH in the range of 3.0 to 4.5.
 43. A sterile pharmaceutical composition comprising in proportion of 40:1000 w/v (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-yl 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate 3 H₂O (docetaxel trihydrate (III)) with water content in the range of 5.0-6.8% w/w calculated on an anhydrous basis, and polysorbate 80; and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein said acid is present in a sufficient quantity to obtain a pH in the range of 3.0 to 4.5.
 44. A sterile pharmaceutical composition comprising in proportion of 40:1000 w/v docetaxel trihydrate, with water content in the range of 1.1-4.9% w/w, calculated on an anhydrous basis, and polysorbate 80; and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein said acid is present in a sufficient quantity to obtain a pH in the range of 3.0 to 4.5.
 45. A pharmaceutical composition comprising in proportion 6:1000 w/v 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-yl (2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (anhydrous paclitaxel (II)) with water content lower than 1.0% w/w calculated on an anhydrous basis, and polysorbate 80; and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein said acid is in a sufficient quantity to obtain a pH in the range of 3.0 to 4.5.
 46. A pharmaceutical composition, comprising in proportion 6:1000 w/v 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-yl (2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (hydrated paclitaxel) with water content in the range of 1.1-6.8% w/w calculated on an anhydrous basis, and polysorbate 80; and an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid, ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein said acid is in a sufficient quantity to obtain a pH in the range of 3.0 to 4.5.
 47. A method for treating a neoplastic tumor that is responsive to treatment with an agent that inhibits the depolymerization of tubulin comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition of any one of claims 42-46.
 48. A process for the preparation of anhydrous docetaxel (I), comprising the following steps: (a) reacting di-tertbutyl-dicarbonate (>99% purity) and N-desacetyl-N-debenzoyl paclitaxel (>98% purity), in equimolar quantities, using an anhydrous solvent, (b) removing the solvent, and (c) isolating anhydrous docetaxel (I).
 49. The process according to claim 48 wherein the anhydrous solvent is an aliphatic or cyclic ether.
 50. The process according to claim 49 wherein the solvent is anhydrous tetrahydrofuran.
 51. A process for the preparation of anhydrous docetaxel (I), comprising the following steps: (a) reacting di-tertbutyl-dicarbonate (>99% purity) and N-desacetyl-N-debenzoyl paclitaxel (>98% purity), in equimolar quantities, using an anhydrous solvent to obtain a solution of docetaxel, (b) admixing the resultant solution of docetaxel with water or a mixture of water and a chemically inert co-solvent, to induce crystallization of docetaxel trihydrate (III), (c) isolating the crystals of the docetaxel trihydrate (III), (d) washing and drying the crystals by means of conventional processes.
 52. The process according to claim 51 wherein the solvent is polysorbate 80 and the co-solvent is an alcohol containing between 1 and 8 carbon atoms.
 53. The process according to claim 51 wherein the solvent is polysorbate 80 and to co-solvent is ethanol.
 54. The process according to claim 51 wherein the solvent is polysorbate 80 and the co-solvent is n-butanol.
 55. The process according to claim 51 wherein the quantity of water used is greater than or equal to 2,000 molar equivalents relative to the quantity of docetaxel (I).
 56. The process according to claim 51 wherein the quantity of alcohol used as a co-solvent is greater than or equal to 60 molar equivalents relative to the quantity of docetaxel (I).
 57. The process according to any one of claims 51-56 wherein the final concentration of doceltaxel (I) in polysorbate 80 is between 0.025 to 0.067 g/mL, prior to mixing with water or water and co-solvent.
 58. The process according to any one of claims 51-56 wherein the final concentration of docetaxel (I) in polysorbate 80 is approximately 0.04 g/mL, prior to mixture with water or water and co-solvent. 